Edward Reese Sharpe of Oxford, MS, loving family member, teacher, and role model passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on Wednesday October 16, 2024, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford.

Ed was predeceased by his parents Beverly and Carrie Sharpe; his sister, Beverly Dance; her husband Philip Dance; and nephew-in-law, Tom Downs.

He is survived by nieces and nephews: Libby Nix (George); Carol Downs; Darrell Dance (Mary); Allen Dance (Pam); and numerous great nieces and nephews.  Ed also took a significant fatherly role in the lives of Rodney Isbell (Kathy); Michael Scott (Amy); and members of their families, creating many great memories and holiday traditions together.

After graduating from Messick High School, Ed attended the University of Mississippi. He honorably served in the U.S. Army and started out in law enforcement as a deputy sheriff with Shelby County. Young at heart, Ed transitioned to education, where he found immense joy teaching for many years. Ed retired from both the Memphis City Schools as well as Oxford High School and later became an instructor at the University of Mississippi. A passionate scholar of history and geography, Ed excelled in teaching social studies to his students. He also coached golf and swimming as well as led numerous programs such as the HI-Y club, youth legislature, and mock trial. Ed sponsored a German foreign exchange program at Oxford High leading to ongoing post-retirement visits to Germany to spend time and visit friends. He was known for his extraordinary storytelling, great sense of humor, generous spirit, and joy for life. Ed was a selfless soul who volunteered with various charities and was a longtime member of the Lion’s Club.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the amazing staff at The Pinnacle of Oxford Assisted Living, as well as his medical practitioners, for the compassionate care and support they provided to Ed over the past year.

Ed was a devoted member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Oxford, MS. A memorial service and visitation will be held on Friday, November 1, starting at 10:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM at the church, located at 113 South 9th Street, Oxford, MS 38655.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Oxford Lions Club, PO Box 1751, Oxford, MS 38655.

Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford staff is honored to serve the family during this challenging season of life. Online condolences may be composed on his tribute wall at www.colemanfuneralhomeox.com